The TruPace M100 Treadmill – One of the Better Models Under $500

The TruPace M100 treadmill offers a nice size motor, a power incline, a soft-drop folding frame, and lots of other cool features in order to be a contender as the best treadmill for under $500.

The Machine

The TruPace M100 treadmill has a blue backlit LCD display showing workout feedback (time, speed, distance, etc.) and the rest of the console is loaded with quick select buttons for the 13 programs, plus keys for quick incline and speed control.

The full specs are:

• 2.0 CHP Motor
• 16" x 50" Tread Belt
• 0-10 mph Speed
• 0-12% Incline
• 13 Workouts
• TruRide Cushioning
• Integrated Heart Rate Monitor
• 225 lbs User Weight Capacity
• TruDrop Folding Frame
• Dimensions / Unit Wt: 60" L x 29" W / 130 lbs
• Warranty: 5 years motor, 90 days parts & labor

The Buzz

UPDATE:  TruPace is out of business and no longer manufacturing treadmills.  Take a look at ProForm and Horizon for great machines in a similar price range.

This Motion Series TruPace M100 treadmill offers a compact 16" x 50" walking surface which is ideal for smaller adults.

Other features include 12 incline levels, a strong 2.0 continuous duty hp motor, 2" rollers for the belt, a folding frame with soft drop lift, water bottle holder, and handrail speed adjustment buttons. The power incline and handrail controls are the types of features are normally found on machines costing at least $900 or more.

The warranty is weak on the M100 treadmill (just 90 days on parts and labor), which is done in order to keep the retail price down, so you should consider buying the extended warranty from TruPace Fitness at checkout.

Prices are reasonable ranging from $79.99 for one year and $99.99 for two years, up to $179.99 for 4 years of parts and labor coverage.

What We Say

With only a 5-year warranty on the motor, we recommend you skip the M100 and go with the M120 for $200 more if your budget allows for it. The M120 offers a lifetime motor warranty plus 1-year coverage for parts and labor.

We can’t say much about the reliability of the TruPace M100 since the company, while being in business for 15 years in Europe, has only recently launched its products in the US.

And while first reviews have been generally favorable, we would caution that this is a small and lightweight treadmill with a short motor warranty, so it is not recommended for tall or heavy users, or for serious runners.

But for people on a budget that need a good machine for casual indoor walks every day, the TruPace M100 treadmill is a good choice.

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